MATHURA: Preparations are in their final stages for Shri Krishna Janmashtami (August 16, 2025), the biggest religious event in the Braj region. Celebrations for the 5,252nd birth anniversary of Lord Krishna are in full swing in Mathura and surrounding areas, with devotees’ enthusiasm at its peak. According to the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, over 50 lakh devotees are expected to visit Mathura alone this year. To manage the large crowds and ensure safety, the local administration has made special arrangements, including setting up numerous stages across the city where around 1,000 artists will perform.
Tourism and Culture Minister, Jaiveer Singh, shared these details, adding that grand processions will take place on the main streets and in the narrow lanes of Mathura-Vrindavan for three days. These celebrations will showcase Braj’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage through traditional tableaux, cultural programs, and various activities. The three consecutive holidays from August 15 to 17 are expected to attract a huge influx of devotees. The department anticipates a surge of both domestic and international tourists in the Mathura-Vrindavan area this year.
The Minister stated that under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, elaborate preparations have been made in Mathura, Vrindavan, Govardhan, Barsana, and Gokul. The aim is to allow devotees and tourists to experience the “leelas” (divine plays) associated with Lord Krishna’s life. “Our goal is for every visitor to return with a feeling of devotion, joy, and a wonderful spiritual experience,” he said, adding that the goal is to promote Braj’s rich heritage worldwide.
Singh mentioned that the atmosphere of devotion is at its peak in Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, Nandgaon, and Govardhan. Tableaux depicting Lord Krishna’s childhood stories are being set up in the streets of Mathura, while temples are being adorned with flowers, façade lighting, rangoli, and lamps. A grand procession will begin from Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi on August 15, Independence Day. This series of processions will create a devotional atmosphere as they wind through the streets of Mathura and the temples of Vrindavan, Barsana, Nandgaon, and Govardhan.
Local artists from Braj, Bundelkhand, Rajasthan, and Haryana will present traditional dances during the festival, including special performances of Rai, Kachhi Ghodi, and Gujri dances. Additionally, Bhajan groups from ISKCON and Barsana’s Radha Rani temple will enthral devotees with their devotional songs.
Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture, Mukesh Kumar Meshram, said that special religious and cultural programs have been arranged in Mathura, Vrindavan, Govardhan, Gokul, Barsana, and Nandgaon. “Janmashtami is not just a religious festival; it’s a symbol of Braj’s rich cultural heritage,” he stated. The tourism department is strengthening tourist facilities to welcome devotees and tourists from around the world.
